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Still relevant parts of the most recent emailed circulars are reproduced below, along with a developing Draft of the next, but check out the Diary for full listings.
Circulars dated:   4/3/14   15/2/14   31/1/14

An email circulation list with currently over 1500 contacts provides regular information on folk events across southern Devon roughly within a 30 mile radius as the crow flies of Totnes. The e-circulars are sent on a regular basis, usually one every 7-14 days, not more than one per week apart from exceptional circumstances (and never with any attachments).

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Draft Next Circular

date next

DRAFT NEXT Harberton Folk Circular - ??day ?? March 2014
Only a selection of events follows below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

text

NEW Saturday 15 March 2014 - Heartwave - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND (map)
Katie Whitehouse, John Clarke & The HeartWave Chorus + Paul Hussell… and a Spooky Man! A night of songs of love, life and fishermen… a blend of original songs by Katie, John & Paul, plus a couple of surprise covers for Reg Meuross and Charlie Dore fans. A mix of acapella and accompanied songs - with flute, guitar, piano, cello and percussion. Lots of harmony! The wonderful bass, Richard Bates from the Spooky Men's Chorale, is by a stroke of lucky geography in Devon at the moment, and will be joining the chorus. Full details, ticketing etc. www.theflavel.org.uk/TheFlavel.dll/WhatsOn?Programme=1423767.. Here's a selection of songs we are likely to include https://soundcloud.com/kt-whitehouse/sets/song-selection.

Friday 28 March 2014 - Acoustic Haven: Chartwell Dutiro and Collectress - St John's Church, Bridgetown, Totnes TQ9 5AD (map)
World-renowned mbira player Chartwell Dutiro whose music and voice is unbelievably uplifting, stunning polyrhythms and song www.chartwelldutiro.com. Collectress are a 4-piece multi-instrumentalist group with strings, keyboards, voices and all sorts www.collectress.co.uk. Tickets £8 adv (available from Sacks Wholefoods in Totnes (cash only, no commission), online at www.wegottickets.com/event/264979 , or on the door. Doors 6.30pm. Supporting ancient woodland on Dartmoor (www.thehillyfield.co.uk).

Thursday 10 April 2014 7.30pm - Folk at the Flavel: Martin Simpson - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND (map)
Martin is regarded as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitarists in the world. His career includes collaborations on stage and record with among many others Richard Thompson, June Tabor and Dick Gaughan. Martin has been nominated an astounding 26 times in the twelve years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards and was voted Musician of the Year on two occasions. He has had a long recording career with some 14 successful albums to his name. He recently released his latest, “Vagrant Stanzas”, to wide critical acclaim. Tickets £16, £5 U18. Box office 01803 839530 or book online at www.theflavel.org.uk.

NEW Saturday 19 April 2014 8pm - Pete Morton - Ley Arms Folk & Acoustic Music Club, Ley Arms, Kenn nr Exeter EX6 7UW (map)
One of the UK's finest songwriters of emotionally-driven songs delivered with a distinctive voice. One of his highly-acclaimed songs "Another Train" (see www.youtube.com/watch?v=xh5Ilhs-SF4) has been recorded by several performers. Pete also performs with Maggie Boyle, Chris Parkinson and Roger Wilson, among others. www.petemorton.com. Support: DevonBird www.devonbird.co.uk  + The Cornelius Family. Tickets £8 adv, £10 door, info / ticket reservations contact: leyarmsfolk@hotmail.co.uk or 01392 210983 (The Cornelius Family).

NEW 25-27 April 2014 - Budleigh Guitar Festival - Budleigh Salterton
The Public Hall, St Peter’s Church & selected venues around the town. Fri evening only, Sat/Sun 12 noon til close. Featuring: Martin Barre (Friday), Tommy Emmanuel (Saturday); Glenn Tilbrook (Sunday); . Plus: Clive Gregson, Mark Griffiths & Andy Roberts (3 Boxes); B.J.Cole; Peter White; Chris Foster; John James; John Etheridge; Philip Henry; Sam Carter; Chris Woods, Nick Harper, and Flats & Sharps. Concerts, workshops, open mic, full bar, stalls, all-day food. For further details email: info@gypsymusicpromotions.co.uk. Box Office/enquiries: 01395 443419 or 07891 663044. Online ticketing options www.wegottickets.com/f/7163.

NEW 25-31 May 2014 - John Jones & The Reluctant Ramblers: Two Moors, Two Seas
The latest in the acclaimed series of walking tours with Oysterband's John Jones: a week of music and walks, open to all. Full details, ticketing where applicable etc. www.j-rr.org/two-moors-two-seas-2014-walking-tour-2. Some great lunchtime pub locations too. Summary:
Sunday 25 May: Exmoor walk, then on stage at Barnstaple's North Devon Beer Festival
Monday 26 May: Barnstaple - Bideford - Gt. Torrington, show at Plough Arts Centre
Tuesday 27 May: Tarka Trail, evening gig at Tally Ho Inn, Hatherleigh
Wednesday 28 May: Tarka Trail, then set from the band plus session and ceilidh at Drewe Arms, Drewsteignton
Thursday 29 May: Two Moors Way to Holne, evening show at Barrel House, Totnes
Friday 30 May: Holne to Ivybridge, whole day on the Moor, weather permitting, evening show at The Watermark, Ivybridge
Saturday 31 May: Erme-Plym Trail and SW Coast Path to Noss Mayo, with a closing session at The Swan Inn, Noss Mayo.

Saturday 21 June 2014 6pm - Celebrating Cicely - Bow Congregational Church, nr Crediton
A folk concert celebrating Cicely Fox Smith using her poems/words set to music. Starring. Martyn Wyndham-Read, Moira Craig, Tom Lewis, Mike Warman, Di Franklin, Jackie Williams, Jim Saville, Peter & Barbara Snape, Chris Mason, Chris & Bev Arscott, Hilary Bix, Liz Crow & Shake a Leg, Danny & Joyce McLeod, Nigel Chapman & Gideon Barrett, Bill Wilkes, Barrie Mathers, Jim Glover & Chris Skinner. More details www.cicelyfoxsmith.org.uk. Online ticketing www.wegottickets.com/event/262780.

Session News
Celtic music session at The Walkhampton Inn (Yelverton/Dousland area) Devon. 2nd Sunday each month from 8pm.

More in brief - Selection only - Full Diary listings and details on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
Friday 14 March - Craobh Rua - Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton
Tuesday 18 March - Dumbo Feathers - Bradninch Folk Club, Castle Hotel
Saturday 22 March - Ceilidh with The Mooncoin Ceilidh Band - Forde Hall Social Club, Newton Abbot
Saturday 22 March - Mary Black / Clannad - Plymouth Pavilions
Thursday 27 March - O'Hooley & Tidow - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter
Wednesday 9 April - Feast Of Fiddles - Exeter Corn Exchange
Thursday 10 April - Martin Simpson - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth
Saturday 12 April - Steve Tilston Trio - South Pool Village Hall nr Kingsbridge
Monday 28 April - The Fureys & Davey Arthur - Exeter Corn Exchange
Saturday 3 May - Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain - Riverside Leisure Centre, Exeter

John Culf
johnculf@harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertondevon.co.uk
www.harbertonfolk.co.uk
All information is given in good faith but no responsibility can be accepted for its accuracy. Do check with the organiser before setting out on a long journey.

Recent Circulars

4/3/14

Harberton Folk Circular - Tuesday 4 March February 2014
I can't believe two and a half weeks have gone by since my last circular! Must try and do better (reminds me of my school report). Many NEW events amongst the reminders below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

Richie's listings for live music in March in East Devon
are available here: www.harbertonfolk.co.uk/richie.htm

NEW Wednesday 12 March 2014 - Troubadors Garden - Bradninch Acoustic Music Club, St Disens Hall, Bradninch
Featuring excellent guitarist Phil Bird and wonderful Flautist Anna Georghiou. Details www.bradninchacousticmusicclub.org/?page_id=7.

Thursday 13 March 2014 8pm - Judy Cook - Totnes Folk Song Club, Dartmouth Inn, Totnes TQ9 5EL (map)
American songs and ballads.  £6 performers, £7 non performers. More information from Anne & Steve Gill 01803 290427 or Andy Clarke 01803 732312.

UPDATED Thursday 13 March 2014 8pm - Jamie Smith's Mabon - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Vocals, accordion, fiddle, bouzouki, bass and drums are subtly explored by five dynamic, accomplished musicians, working traditional forms and styles anew in songs and melodies by composer Jamie Smith. Details www.calstockarts.org/thursday-13-march-jamie-smiths-mabon.

Jamie Smith's Mabon (see www.villagesinaction.co.uk for full details, venue locations etc.)
Wales' finest purveyors of original InterCeltic music. As comfortable on a world music stage as in a folk setting, theirs is a music that travels beyond borders to explore the forms and styles of the Celtic traditions and work them anew. Through songs and melodies, from thoughtful lyrics to joyful jigs, graceful mazurkas to ecstatic munera, here is a band that can take you on an emotional journey. More than just a show, more than inspired composition and skilful arrangement, you can expect to witness the joy of creating music expressed in dynamic, virtuosic performance. Tunesmith, accordionist and lead singer Jamie is joined at the front of the stage by fiddler Oliver Wilson-Dickson (of Ian Macmillan Orchestra and Zsapora renown) and by Adam Rhodes on bouzouki. A band that draws readily on the vast range of its members' influences, but does not attempt to make 'fusion'; instead it is a constant pursuit of integrity in seeking to explore the music that gives them - and their listeners - joy. www.jamiesmithsmabon.com
Friday 14 March 7.45pm - Clyst Hydon Village Hall - tickets 01884 277338
Saturday 15 March 8pm - Chudleigh Community School Hall - tickets 01626 852553

Saturday 15 March 2014 - Great Western Ceilidh with Monty's Maggot - Bowhill School, Buddle Lane, Exeter EX4 1JT (map)
Monty's Maggot includes Old Swan Band stalwart Flos Headford (fiddle), Jeremy Tozer (melodeon), English String Band's founder Taz Tarry (fiddle), Random's Keith Holloway (bass, banjo and percussion). This is an evening for cracking-good English tunes, played with infectious rhythm, gusto and energy. . Tickets £9 and concs. To book in advance email ceilidhs@great-western.org.uk or call 01392 217152. www.great-western.org.uk/ceilidhs/index.htm.

NEW Saturday 15 March 2014 - Solarference - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Award-winning electronic musicians and singers Solarference perform an electrifying live soundtrack to accompany the classic 1920 silent film Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. John Barrymore stars in the renowned adaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson classic about a Victorian scientist who turns himself into a murderous abomination. Solarference uses cutting-edge live sound manipulation to improvise and respond to the film as it unfolds. Drawing on traditional folk song and found sounds, Solarference create sublime and mysterious music, a perfect complement to this iconic film’s shadowy magic. As an added bonus, in the second part of the show Solarference will perform songs from their recent album Lips of Clay, followed by a Q&A. “Lips Of Clay is a stunning album, which seamlessly joins contemporary electronic music to traditional folk.” – Bright Young Folk. Pre-show 2-course supper available. Details www.calstockarts.org/saturday-15-february-film-night-and-supper-dr-jekyll-and-mr-hyde-featuring-solarference.

Saturday 15 March 2014 - Mad Dog Mcrea - Exeter Phoenix (map)
To celebrate St Patrick’s Day, Mad Dog Mcrea will raise hands, lift feet and start parties with their spellbinding recipe of folk, pop, rock, jazz, bluegrass and ‘shake your ass’ music. They demand you to dance, whisking up whistles, fiddles and mandolins to collide in a spectacular explosion of infectious fun. They were named Best Live Act at the 2012 South West Music Awards, and the same awards in 2011 gave their album The Whirling Dervish Best Album of the Year. www.maddogmcrea.co.uk Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/mad-dog-mcrea-2

Sunday 16 March 2014 8pm – Emily Smith Trio - The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
The Emily Smith Trio (Emily Smith vocals/accordion/keyboards, Jamie McClennan guitar/fiddle/vocals, Matheu Watson guitar/whistle/fiddle.) One of the loveliest voices on the traditional music scene the bonnie wee lass from Dumfries and Galloway won the BBC Radio Scotland's Young Traditional Music of the Year Award in 2002. Check out a short film about Emily and her music at www.youtube.com/watch?v=o3qvDJe5EPc. Doors, bar and food from 6.30pm. Box office and details 07891 663044 or 01395 443419 (cards accepted), or www.wegottickets.com/event/239965.

Sunday 16 March 2014 8pm – Brooks Williams – Acoustic Warehouse Open Mic Music Club, Passage House Inn, Hackney Lane, Kingsteignton, Newton Abbot TQ12 3QH
Ranked one of the Top 100 Acoustic Guitarists, singer-songwriter Brooks Williams writes groove-laden songs and delivers them with an easy-going vocal style and monstrous guitar chops. Walking the line between blues and Americana, Williams has worked stages worldwide for over 25 years, amassing a staggering back-catalogue of songs, recordings and tales. “I’ve known Brooks for many years. He’s a lovely player, a lovely singer, and a great writer and a lovely man. The real thing” (Martin Simpson). www.brookswilliams.com Support by Marc Woodward ‘One of the best mandolinists I have ever heard’ Stage and Television Today, with Robin Brown. Tickets £10 available on any club night, telephone 01626 362528 or email acoustic.warehouse@gmail.com. www.myspace.com/acoustic_warehouse.

NEW Sunday 16 March 2014 7.30-9.30pm - Balkan and Gypsy Dance Workshop - St Matthews Church Hall, Lower Summerlands, Exeter EX1 2LJ
Katy Marchant, Steve Tyler & friends playing live music. If you know people that would like to just listen to the music please let them know as they are more than welcome to come along. Located in Newtown - free parking opposite the hall. Cost £7. For more information please call Fiona Parr 01626 821110 or Kushuma Holyoak 01837 82001.

Cornish Traditional Music from Dalla (see www.villagesinaction.co.uk for full details, venue locations etc.)
What Dalla's live show offers you is a joyful, heartrending, life affirming performance. They invite you to share in the mischievous delight they take in playing with their Cornish tradition, and in their fascination with the world that lies behind the pieces. Their voices bring you the sometimes joyous, sometimes heartrending two and three part female harmonies of Hilary, Bec and Jen. Songs of heartbreak, loving, laughing and dying. Singing for dancing, singing for joy, singing for sheer pleasure. With intricately interwoven strings of bouzouki, mandola and mandolin, and Cornish clarinet dancing around the melodies with hypnotic grooves on the fiddle and viola. A Dalla concert is always a special experience. "Dalla's performances are both inventive and enchanting, their music celebrates Cornish culture in an upbeat and infectious voice." - The Guardian. www.dalla.co.uk
Wednesday 19 March 7.30pm - Bigbury Memorial Hall - tickets 01548 810373
Thursday 20 March 7.30pm - Holcombe Burnell Church, Longdown - tickets 01392 8112426/811816
Friday 21 March 7.30pm - Dunkeswell Village Hall - tickets 01404 891677
Saturday 22 March 8pm - Brentor Village Hall - tickets 01822 810600

UPDATED Friday 21 March 2014 8pm - Mick Ryan & Paul Downes - Ley Arms Folk & Acoustic Music Club, Ley Arms, Kenn nr Exeter EX6 7UW (map)
One of the finest duos on the folk scene. Mick Ryan – one of folk's finest voices and writer of many highly-acclaimed folk operas, including The Navvy's Wife and The Pauper's Path. www.mickryanfolkshows.co.uk. Paul Downes – one of the UK's finest multi-instrumentalists and legendary performer. Paul's new solo album, The Boatman's Cure, has been highly praised. www.pauldownes.com. Support Steve Gill + The Cornelius Family. Tickets £8 adv, £10 door, info / ticket reservations contact: leyarmsfolk@hotmail.co.uk or 01392 210983 (The Cornelius Family).

NEW Saturday 22 March 2014 7.30pm - Ceilidh with Rumpus - Rattery Village Hall nr Totnes TQ10 9LD
Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Morris Ring, Dartington Morris Men are running a family ceilidh 7.30-11pm with 'Rumpus' and caller Ken Hudson. A Ploughman's Supper, together with Bar facilities, and a Raffle are included. Tickets £8 (in advance please, are available from Ken Hudson on 01548 550004 or email ken[at]khudson.plus.com.

NEW Friday 28 March 2014 - John Langan Band - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
Standing +VIP seating. High energy, unhinged, and musically extravagant, The John Langan band takes traditional acoustic idioms and delivers them with punk abandonment and virtuosic flare. Let your hair down and revel in this dynamic three piece, offering a unique sound emerging from Celtic, Gypsy Swing, Roma and Flamenco and tuned in savvy. www.thejohnlanganband.com Special guest: Sam Green. Full details, ticketing, samples etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk/#!the-john-langan-band/c1e0q.  Tickets also available in person from Totnes TIC.

NEW Saturday 29 March 2014 8pm - howdenjones in Concert ‘No halls barred' 2014 - Blackawton Village Hall, Vicarage Road, nr Totnes TQ9 7AY
'the beautiful music in beautiful places' Tour continues... Kate Howden and Paul Jones are songwriters who are travelling all over the country playing at Village Halls and Community Venues. They write about life and their observations of it, often poignant, sometimes humorous, and gathering new material as they travel, they captivate an audience in a unique intimate atmosphere. Their show has been described as, ‘relaxed and enchanting’ and ‘an absolute delight’, ‘their joy, talent and good humour were infectious’. ‘music for all ages’. With a variety of instruments including, guitar, fiddle, mandolin, bodhran and banjo, superb harmonies and great musicianship, howdenjones will promise to give you a foot tapping and thought provoking evening with plenty of smiles! Samples at www.howdenjones.co.uk. They will be joined at this concert by Fiddler Andy Doherty, who has worked with them on numerous recording projects, and whose style directly compliments their songs and tunes. Tickets £7 from The George Inn 01803 712342 (pay by card), Blackawton Community Shop or 01803 712159.

NEW Saturday 29 March 2014 7.30pm - Comedy from Paul Eastwood, Shanties from Old Gaffers - Rattery Village Hall nr Totnes TQ10 9LD
Cabaret evening in aid of South Brent Carnival. Doors 7pm. Ploughman’s supper with local produce, Bar with waitress service only (no corkage). A quality draw. Tickets £15 per person from Jean on 01364 73292 at any time or Doreen 01364 73650.

UPDATED Sunday 30 March 2014 -  4 Parts Guitar: Gordon Giltrap, John Etheridge, Clive Carroll, Raymond Burley - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Four of the most influential guitarists in Britain on one stage, with spontaneous, exciting, and technically brilliant individual styles. Full details www.calstockarts.org/sunday-30-march-four-parts-guitar-gordon-giltrap-john-etheridge-raymond-burley-clive-carroll.

NEW Thursday 3 April 2014 - Barb Jungr: Hard Rain tour - South Devon Arts Centre, The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map)
Seated. Barb Jungr returns to the songs of Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen with the release of Hard Rain this spring, an album to remind us the protest songs of the 60s and 70s are as relevant in today's world as they were half a century ago. “Possibly our best interpreter of Dylan’s songs” Billy Bragg. www.barbjungr.com Full details, ticketing, samples etc. www.southdevonarts.co.uk/#!barb-jungr/c1g9p. Tickets also available in person from Totnes TIC.

NEW Friday 4 April 2014 -  Amadou Diagne with Griselda Sanderson - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Amadou’s background as a percussionist has led him to develop a unique guitar style, which shifts from traditional African blues to an awe-inspiring display of percussive artistry. He is accompanied by the ethereal tones of the Swedish nyckelharpa and violin of Griselda Sanderson. With the addition of Daniel Gerrard’s virtuosic guitar playing and Omer Makessa from Martinique on African percussion, their energy and dynamism has delighted audiences around the UK. The group has been supported by PRS Foundation for Music, with their current tour sponsored by Carn to Cove. Full details www.calstockarts.org/friday-4-april-amadou-diagne-with-griselda-sanderson.

NEW Saturday 5 April 2014 8.30pm - Folk Evening - Cross House Inn, Metherell (map), nr Callington
Not 29 March as previously advertised
Song and music session. All welcome, bring your instruments and voices. Another fun-filled folk evening.

UPDATED Wednesday 9 April 2014 8pm - Jurassic Folk presents: Tim Edey - Dolphin Hotel, Beer EX12 3EQ (map)
The incredible Tim Edey returns, once more by overwhelming popular demand. Tim is one of the finest multi-instrumental players of his generation in the worldwide Celtic music scene. A virtuoso on both acoustic guitar and button accordion, Tim's incredible musical ear and total technical command allows him to play the most demanding instrumentals and improvise freely in any style you throw at him. He will be accompanied by fine Scottish singer Isobel Crowe, and further members of the band will be made known closer the date. www.timedey.co.uk. Support: David Mitchell and Graham Vincent who play lively traditional music from the British Isles, mainly on Fiddle and Guitar. Much of their set is instrumental but this is mixed in with a few broadly traditional songs. www.mitchellandvincent.com. Call 01297 20064 or book online at www.wegottickets.com/event/255478. www.eastdevonfolk.org

UPDATED Thursday 10 April 2014 8pm - Rita Hosking - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Rita Hosking grew up in a rural area in Shasta County, California. A descendant of Cornish miners who sang in the mines, Rita grew up with deep regard for folk music and the power of the voice. Her style of country-folk has been lauded for story and sense of place. Accompanied in concert by her husband Sean Feder on dobro and banjo. Check Rita out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXHY9QYzyzs. Tickets £8 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259142.

NEW Friday 11 April 2014 - Gallery Bar Special: Gareth Hedges - The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Gareth brings his own brand of Delta Blues, American and Celtic Folk, Jazz classics and original songs, performed on 6, 12 string & Dobro resonator guitar. Gareth’s influences are American roots musicians including Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys, old time banjo player Clarence Ashley, ragtime blues guitarist Rev. Gary Davis and slide guitarist Mississippi Fred McDowell. Free entry, chatty atmosphere, donations to Gareth would be much appreciated. Doors and bar 7.30pm, music from 8.30pm.

UPDATED Thursday 17 April 2014 8pm - Malcolm Holcombe - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Born and raised in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina, Malcolm Holcombe is being recognized by the contemporary U.S and European folk/americana community as a performer of national stature, and an uncommonly unique guitarist/vocalist about whom Rolling Stone magazine says: "Haunted country, acoustic blues and rugged folk all meet [here]..." Check Malcolm out at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMVSM8hrxDE. Tickets £8 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259143.

NEW Saturday 19 April 2014 -  The Sweet Lowdown - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock PL18 9QX (map)
Nominated by the Canadian Folk Music Awards as Vocal Group of the Year 2013, The Sweet Lowdown blend original songwriting and three-part harmonies with an old-time instrumental groove. This award-winning acoustic roots trio from Victoria, B.C. creates a unique yet timeless sound that takes listeners on a pleasurable and memorable journey. Full details www.calstockarts.org/saturday-19-april-the-sweet-lowdown.

NEW Wednesday 23 April 2014 8pm - Jurassic Folk presents: Exmouth Shanty Men - Dolphin Hotel, Beer EX12 3EQ (map)
A rousing Shanty Night in the seafaring village of Beer, the songs and the beer will be flowing! Call 01297 20064 or book online at www.wegottickets.com/event/261148. www.eastdevonfolk.org

NEW Sunday 18 May 2014 4pm - Steve Knightley - Lympstone Village Hall, School Hill, Lympstone, Exmouth EX8 5JY (map)
This year Steve is turning his back on large theatres and major concert venues in order to bring his songs to village halls and community venues throughout the land. The ' Grow your Own gig ' tour will find him in out-of-the-way locations from Cornwall to the Borders and he sees this very much as a return to the rural roots of his music. "With so many songs about people who live and work in the countryside and the day to day issues they face -it will be great to actually perform them in their spiritual homes." Send your cheque (£16) payable to Kevin Henderson, Lodge Music Promotions, Woodbury Business Park, Woodbury, Exeter EX5 1AY. Please enclose SAE and contact email address and phone no. Contact 07771 558914, email kevin@lodgemusicpro.co.uk. Doors 3.15pm.

NEW Saturday 24 May 2014 - Baka Beyond - Exeter Phoenix (map)
Standing. After 20 years of mixing African and Celtic music in equal measures Baka Beyond has become one of the finest danceable bands around, creating the sound of the global village. Box office 01392 667080. www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/baka-beyond

NEW Sunday 27 July 2014 - Phil Beer - Kingsand Community Hall, Kingsand, Cornwall PL10 1NS
Phil Beer is one of the most popular ambassadors for acoustic roots music. A dazzling instrumentalist, he is perhaps best-known as a top-flight fiddle player and plays in the all-star line up "Feast of Fiddles". But his skills don't stop there, he also plays slide, Spanish and tenor guitar, mandocello, viola, mandolin and South American cuatro, not to mention contributing rich vocals. This concert is being organised as a joint venture with the Maker with Rame Community Hall. Details www.wegottickets.com/event/263723.

NEW Saturday 16 November 2014 7pm - Bellowhead - Plymouth Pavilions (map)
After their special sell-out 10th Anniversary shows at The Royal Albert Hall and Manchester Bridgewater Hall, award-winning big band Bellowhead are delighted to continue the celebrations with the announcement of their biggest ever UK tour. Details www.plymouthpavilions.com/prod-productions_details.asp?pid=905

Mini-feature: The George Hotel, South Molton, N Devon EX36 3AB (map)
Outside our normal coverage area, but always an interesting music programme. Details www.georgehotelsouthmolton.co.uk. Tel. 01769 572514.
16/3 Judy Cook; 25/4 Geoff Lakeman; 26/4 Jenna Witts & Amy Newton

Session news
Malborough: The 4th Thursday Open Mike session at the Royal Oak Malborough is suspended till further notice, but the 2nd Wednesday Open Jam Session at the Royal Oak Malborough continues to thrive and the the next Session will be on March 12th. Bring along some songs or tunes or join in with everyone else. All kinds of music: folk, jazz, old time, pop, blues, traditional.....

French & Breton Dance & Music in Devon
A brand new online Devon French Dance Hub is in development at www.frenchdancedevon.wordpress.com.
The d'Accord French & Breton dance group in Exeter has a new committee & a new d'Accord e-mail address daccordexeter9@gmail.com; new website coming soon too.

15/2/14

Harberton Folk Circular - Saturday 15 February 2014
A bit pushed to get this out today, but it's been over a fortnight since the last circular, so apologies if I've missed anything out. A fair number of NEW events amongst the reminders below - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.

NEW Friday 14 March 2014 - Craobh Rua - Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton TA4 1JU
Traditional Irish music at its best from Craobh Rua (pronounced Crave Ru-ah) on tour from Ireland : rousing jigs, reels and polkas with tender ballads and airs. This is a seated event. Licensed Bar. More information on www.underonesun.org.uk and www.craobhrua.com. Online booking www.wegottickets.com/event/261429.

NEW Friday 28 March 2014 8pm - The Jigantics - Hazelwood House nr Loddiswell TQ7 4EB (map)
One of the UK and Nu Folk music's most arresting new 5 piece bands with Marion Fleetwood and Martin Fitzgibbon. A fabulous fusion of blues, roots, rocking folk and some cajun spiced Americana that will blow the socks off an audience. "Foot stomping joy tempered with only the occasional heartbreak". "Cajun-kissed folk rock". £15 (£13 conc.) Starts 8pm. Pre-concert buffet served at 6:45pm £18p/p. Please book early to avoid disappointment: 01548 821232. www.hazelwoodhouse.com

NEW Saturday 29 March 2014 7.30pm - Ceilidh with Pigs Might Fly - St James Church Hall, Mount Pleasant, Exeter EX4 7EE
Caller Bob Ridout. Fundraising ceilidh in aid of the National Autistic Society. £8 adult, £4 child £4, family ticket available - in advance 01392 436665 or on the door. Bar and buffet supper. Great raffle with tickets to many local attractions and many other items.

NEW Saturday 12 April 2014 6.30pm – Ceilidh with Red Shed - St. Thomas Church Hall, Cowick Street, Exeter
Family friendly ceileidh presented by Exeter Quaker Meeting. For dancing, or for listening, Red Shed offer music for the feet, head and heart. Please bring contributions for a shared supper between sets (soft drinks provided). Do bring your family and friends! Limited parking available behind church and in nearby streets. Entrance by donation (suggested min. £8 pp/£20 per family - more if you can afford to, less if you can’t!).

NEW 13-15 June 2014 - Moor Merriment: A Weekend of Dartmoor Music & Dance - Lustleigh
Friday evening concert with Jim Causley, Martin and Shan Graebe. Saturday: Day of Dance with Beltane, Cogs and Wheels, Heather and Gorse, and Tinners. Dartmoor Broom and Step Dancing; evening ceilidh with the Dartmoor Pixie Band. Sunday: early evening concert. 'The Dartmoor Cantata' and 'Giant Bolster of Haytor' Lustleigh Village Choir, Westerleigh Orchestra, children's choirs from Bovey Tracey and Moretonhampstead. Further information from Alexa Mason 01647 277498. Website coming soon.

UPDATED Wednesday 25 June 2014 8pm - Steve Knightley - Exeter Golf & Country Club, Countess Wear, Topsham Road, Exeter EX2 7AE
In aid of Hospiscare, the Exeter-based cancer charity, and chosen charity for the year of the club's president. Tickets £16 (may be collected at the Club’s Reception, or posted). Contact 01392 874139 or info@exetergcc.co.uk.

NEW 15-17 August 2014 - Beautiful Days Festival - Escot Park, east of Exeter
Weekend tickets on sale now (no day tickets). www.beautifuldays.org

Feature: Milverton Music Club
Somewhat distant but perhaps of interest to those in the NW of our coverage area, the Club has regular open mic sessions on the 1st Friday of every month except August, plus occasional guest nights, and meets at the Victoria Rooms, Fore St, Milverton, Taunton TA4 1JU (N of Wellington) www.milvertonmusic.co.uk/page2.html. 2014 guest nights:
Friday 16 May - Eliza Gilkyson
Friday 18 July - Coope, Boyes & Simpson
Friday 17 October - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman

Music Around The Clock - A Charity Event - Torquay - 25/26 April
I am writing to invite you or your music group to join our charity fund raising event. We plan on running a 24hour music marathon called “Music Around The Clock” on 25/26 th April 2014 from noon ‘til noon at the Conference Suite known as TQ10s at Torquay Utds Plainmoor ground. We are offering slots of 15, 30 or 60 minutes throughout the 24 hour period and intend to sell tickets to the public in order to raise money. The organizations to benefit will be Operation Imprezza, a Teignmouth based charity supporting a school in Kenya, and Torquay Utd FC. We hope to hear from individuals and groups from a wide variety of musical backgrounds. This will be interlinked with music from abroad either by video link or recording. The ticket buying public will be able to purchase a one-off Pass for £5/£1 that will enable them to attend multiple times over the 24 hour period. There will be a Raffle and refreshments can be purchased at the venue. It would be terrific if you would like to be part of this musical extravaganza and we would ask you to contact us in order to reserve your slot. There are obviously times that will be much more popular than others for performers and it would help if you could give us availability for a range of time slots that we will then finalize with you in March. Not only will you be contributing to a fundraising event for very good causes but you will be included in wider publicity, both editorial and photographic, in the run up to the event and reporting subsequently. Many Thanks for your attention so far and we look forward to hearing from you. sharoncox@torquayutd.com info@operation-imprezza.org.

31/1/14

Harberton Folk Circular - Friday 31 January 2014
Back to a normal selection of events this time after last week's epic listing (which possibly confused even me!) - the full open-ended southern Devon Folk Diary listings appear on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk - and as a trial all events listed for the first time below are marked NEW, while UPDATED speaks for itself. Reminders bear no special marking.
Technical note: I appreciate that MailChimp's default font colour of grey is not to everyone's taste, including mine, but I've yet to find the time to work out how to change it to a nice simple black without losing the obvious colouring for web links etc. which I prefer to retain.

NEW Thursday 10 April 2014 8pm - Rita Hosking - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Rita Hosking grew up in a rural area in Shasta County, California. A descendant of Cornish miners who sang in the mines, Rita grew up with deep regard for folk music and the power of the voice. Her style of country-folk has been lauded for story and sense of place. Accompanied in concert by her husband Sean Feder on dobro and banjo. Tickets £8 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259142.

NEW Saturday 12 April 2014 - Steve Tilston Trio - South Pool Village Hall, Herring Street, South Pool, nr Kingsbridge TQ7 2RP (map)
Stuart and Keith are this talented, happy bunch who bring you a wonderful mix of trad folk with US Blues. They make great music, combining the fiddle and harmonica with vocals. The trio brings out the jauntier side of Steve’s writing. They have been praised by Mark Radcliffe, Radio 2 and had an award from Mike Harding, so they are very much in demand. www.stevetilston.com. 7.00pm for 7.30pm prompt supper, followed by our guest musicians. Raffle and bar. Tickets £18, available from Maddie Marchand email madelinemarchand1[at]gmail.com, te. 01548 531979.

NEW Thursday 17 April 2014 8pm - Malcolm Holcombe - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Born and raised in the Blue Ridge mountains of North Carolina, Malcolm Holcombe is being recognized by the contemporary U.S and European folk/americana community as a performer of national stature, and an uncommonly unique guitarist/vocalist about whom Rolling Stone magazine says: "Haunted country, acoustic blues and rugged folk all meet [here]..." Tickets £8 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259143.

NEW Friday 25 April 2014 9pm - Will McNicol - B-Bar, Barbican Theatre, Plymouth (map)
Will began playing guitar at the age of six, and since then has gone on to become UK Acoustic Guitarist of the Year (2011) and a Fellow of Trinity College London for his playing and compositions. He has released three albums of original material, and has gigged up and down the country; whether it be headlining his own solo shows, or supporting artists from Pierre Bensusan to Mumford & Sons. Will's music is influenced by styles from all over the world, and he has developed his own unique sound, with Celtic folk being the underlying inspiration behind a large majority of his own pieces. His performances have been described as "beautifully flawless", as he swaps between nylon and steel string guitars to show the sheer variety of tone guitars can offer. www.willmcnicol.co.uk. Tickets £4 adv from 01752 242021 or www.wegottickets.com/event/259361.

NEW Saturday 26 April 2014 7.30pm - An evening with Matt Harvey & Jim Causley - South Brent Village Hall, Station Approach TQ10 9AQ (map)
A South Brent Folk Festival event: Matt Harvey is a well-known writer and poet. Devon folk singer Jim Causley has been involved with the local folk from an early age. He studied Jazz & Popular Music at Exeter College he went on to study Traditional Music at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. He is renowned for his warm, rich and mature singing voice (quoted as being akin to the fruitiest of real ales!) his natural gift for interpreting song and his wry and cheeky stage presence. He has recorded a number of CDs most recently ‘Cypress Well’ - song settings of poems by his ancestor Charles Causley and has been a nominee for BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards. Reel Ale bar. Tickets £10 adv from artworks www.artworksouthbrent.co.uk or £12 door. Information: Eileen McKee tel 01364 73699 email: eileen.southbrentfolk@gmail.com. One of a number of events organised throughout the year to support the South Brent Folk Festival (July 11/12 2014).

NEW Monday 28 April 2014 8pm - Jim Moray Band - Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Road, Exeter EX1 1SN (map)
Jim Moray is one of the most consistently inventive musicians working in English traditional music today. Winner of five BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, after five ground-breaking albums he now finds himself at the forefront of a new folk revival in the UK, and hailed as a pivotal influence by a new generation of folk musicians. In 2013 he celebrated both 10 years since his landmark debut album Sweet England and the success of his 2012 career best Skulk. Now he brings material from his forthcoming album of traditional ballads out on the road for an evening of storytelling music at its best. “This new set shows him moving towards the mainstream, relying on his fine, distinctive voice rather than shock tactics… One of the folk scenes great originals” The Guardian. Booking details www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/jim-moray.

NEW Saturday 3 May 2014 7.30pm - The Simon & Garfunkel Story - Barnfield Theatre, Barnfield Road, Exeter EX1 1SN (map)
Direct from London’s West End, award winning actor Dean Elliott (Buddy Holly in “Buddy -The Musical”) and a full cast of performers tell the compelling story of the greatest music duo of all time in this 50th Anniversary Celebration. Using both original photos and film footage, ‘The Simon and Garfunkel Story’ also features a full live band performing all their hits including ‘Mrs Robinson’, ‘Cecilia’, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’, ‘Homeward Bound’ and many more. If you’re a fan of beautiful music then this is an evening not to be missed! www.thesimonandgarfunkelstory.com Booking details www.barnfieldtheatre.org.uk/the-simon-and-garfunkel-story.

NEW Thursday 15 May 2014 6.30-11.30pm - Steve Knightley - River Cottage, Trinity Hill Road, Axminster
Songs and food from the English Countryside. This intimate concert will be complimented by a delicious seasonal meal cooked up by the River Cottage chefs. Tickets £75. Details www.rivercottage.net/shop/product/steve_knightley_at_river_cottage. 

NEW Thursday 22 May 2014 - Luke Jackson - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter EX4 3ET (map)
Luke is a rising 19 year old Roots singer/songwriter from Canterbury, Kent , and 2013 sees him nominated for both the Horizon Award for Best Emerging Talent and the BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award. With a bold, show stopping voice and honed guitar skills, Luke is a confident and captivating performer demonstrating an astonishing maturity. He has been making ripples on the live acoustic scene supporting such luminaries as Show of Hands, Paul Brady, Chris Wood, Steve Knightley, Lucy Ward and Boo Hewerdine and playing Sidmouth, Bristol and Trowbridge festivals. www.lukepauljackson.com. More details and tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/258808. www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject

NEW Thursday 19 June 2014 - Phillip Henry & Hannah Martin - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter EX4 3ET (map)
One of the most exciting and innovative duos to appear on the folk/roots/acoustic scene in recent years. They have been nominated for 'Best Duo' in the 2014 BBC Folk Awards. Phillip Henry is one of the UK's top slide guitarists and harmonica players. Over the past decade he has immersed himself in the music of the Deep South of America, traditional music of the British Isles, and Indian classical music. Specializing in lap slide techniques, his masterful Dobro playing draws together these diverse influences to create a truly unique voice that has been described as "Stunningly good" (Dick Gaughan), and "utterly captivating" (Steve Knightley). His innovative harmonica style combines country blues and folk styles with beat-boxing to create a jaw dropping and much coveted 21st century harmonica sound heavily steeped in tradition. Hannah Martin writing mainly on fiddle, viola, and banjo, and drawing on the traditions of the British Isles is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist from Devon. Her songs weave folklore and legend old and new with beautiful melodies, creating haunting compositions delivered with "a bold and beautiful singing style all her own" (BBC Radio Two). www.philliphenryandhannahmartin.co.uk More details and tickets £8+ www.wegottickets.com/event/258808. www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject

NEW Wednesday 25 June 2014 8pm - Steve Knightley - Exeter Golf & Country Club
In aid of Hospiscare, the Exeter-based cancer charity, and chosen charity for the year of the club's president. Tickets £16 will be available from the Club. Watch this space.

NEW Thursday 26 June 2014 7.30pm - Folk at the Flavel: Richard Digance - The Flavel Arts Centre, Dartmouth TQ6 9ND (map)
Richard Digance started out in the folk clubs but by the early 1980’s he was a television regular and for several years he had his own ITV series and his unique blend of humour and music led to a BAFTA Nomination and Gold Award from The British Academy of Composers and Songwriters. With over 30 albums to his name, Richard has in recent years built a terrific following in the folk clubs and on the summer festival circuit. He is also a regular at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival earning a coveted ‘Pick of the Fringe’ accolade. Tickets £16, £5 U18. Box office 01803 839530 or book online at www.theflavel.org.uk.

NEW Thursday 3 July 2014 - Steve Knightley - Otterton Mill nr Budleigh Salterton EX9 7HG (map)
Ticket availability not known (gig date gleaned from Steve's website). www.ottertonmill.com

NEW 8-10 August 2014 - Dartmoor Folk Festival - South Zeal
Artists announced, to date, include: New Rope String Band (Friday), Lady Maisery, Greg Russell and Ciaran Algar (winners of the BBC Young Folk Awards 2013), Vicki Swan and Jonny Dyer, The Old Fashioned, Bill Whaley and Dave Fletcher, Chalktown and Pete White's Suitcase Circus. Details in due course fromwww.dartmoorfolkfestival.co.uk.

Exeter Phoenix Arts Centre
Exeter Phoenix continues to offer an enormous array of events of many genres, including the following in Feb/Mar:
Sunday 9 March - Solarference - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/solarference
Sunday 9 March - Derrin Nauendorf - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/derrin-nauendorf
Saturday 15 March - Mad Dog Mcrea - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/mad-dog-mcrea-2
Sunday 23 March - Under Her Skin - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/under-her-skin
Thursday 27 March - Tcha Limberger’s Budapest Gypsy Orchestra - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/tcha-limbergers-budapest-gypsy-orchestra
Friday 28 March - Salsa Celtica - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/salsa-celtica (part of the Vibraphonic festical www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/category/vibraphonic)
All the above are now included in the Diary on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk. For full details, samples, videos etc. see the above Phoenix links

Wednesday 5 March - Oysterband - Exeter Corn Exchange
Thursday 13 March - Jamie Smith's Mabon - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock
Thursday 13 March - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - Otterton Mill
Saturday 15 March - Mad Dog Mcrea - Exeter Phoenix
Saturday 22 March - Mary Black / Clannad - Plymouth Pavilions
Thursday 27 March - O'Hooley & Tidow - Starz Bar, 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter
Thursday 27 March - Julian Lloyd Webber, Cello - Plymouth City Museum & Art Gallery
Friday 28 March - Salsa Celtica - Exeter Phoenix
Sunday 30 March -  4 Parts Guitar: Gordon Giltrap, John Etheridge, Clive Carroll, Raymond Burley - Calstock Arts, The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock
Wednesday 9 April - Feast Of Fiddles - Exeter Corn Exchange
Monday 28 April - The Fureys & Davey Arthur - Exeter Corn Exchange
Saturday 3 May - Ukelele Orchestra of Great Britain - Riverside Leisure Centre, Exeter

On Exeter's Phonic FM 106.8 and online www.phonic.fm Mondays 6-8pm
Roots and Shoots with Martin Henning
The best in global and local music. Frequent live sessions from talented local and visiting musicians. See the show’s website http://rootsandshootsdevon.blogspot.co.uk. 1st, 3rd and 5th Mondays of each month | Jan 20 | Feb 3, 17 | Mar 3, 17, 31 | etc.
Common Ground with Martin Hodge - new in 2014
Exploring the rich folk music, songs and traditions of the West Country and the rest of the UK with occasional forays abroad. With informative and entertaining guests including some live music. Contact Martin via www.facebook.com/groups/commongroundonphonicfm/?fref=ts or email martin@phonic.fm. 2nd Monday of each month | Feb 10 | Mar 10 | etx.
Shenanigans with Karen and Kat
Shenanigans is presented by two chin-wagging musos with a weakness for caffeine. We will be playing indie, alternative, new wave and folk….finding those tracks you might not have heard but we know you will love! 4th Monday of each month | Jan 27 | Feb 24 | Mar 24 | etc.

Artists sought for The Feast of St James Festival in Tiverton on 19 July 2014
We are looking for artists based on a traditional theme - hopefully medieval music? but also interested in more upbeat musicians as well which may be loosely medieval in context. We have a day time event and an evening event also. I am open to ideas and would look forward to any contacts who may be of interest at this stage. I am looking for: Morris dancers, individual street folk musician(s), bands? Please contact me, reference Tiverton Town Team: Dawn Chilcott, Tiverton Town Team Co-ordinator, Challen House, 17 The Avenue, Tiverton, Devon EX16 4HP tel. 01884 242212 / 07989 973301, email dawnchilcott[at]btconnect.com.

Words & Music for Good Causes
A new spoken-word performance group based in South Devon would love to hear from any traditional players/singers who might be interested in collaborating on occasional projects/events for selected charities (a recent example involved musicians and readers presenting international poetry for Amnesty). Please contact Chris Waters on: waterschris@live.com.

Hazel Morris Sticks (17/1)
It's that logging/coppicing time of year in our small piece of woodland in Harberton and I can offer of hazel sticks, to be prepared to order (stripped/unstripped, size, length) from freshly cut stems. Please reply to this email if interested. First come first served.

Budleigh Assorted Tunes' programme at The Public Hall, Budleigh Salterton EX9 6RJ (map)
now includes the following (details in the Diary on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk), with pre-bookable food usually available from 6.30pm:
Sunday 16 March – Emily Smith Trio
Sunday 6 July – The Home Service
New Sunday 14 September - Altan with very special guests Chris Newman & Máire Ní Chathasaigh
New Sunday 28 September - Dervish
Special ticket offer: Book 3 pairs of seated tickets for any 3 gigs (or 6 single tickets for any six gigs!) for £99 total (providing they are not already sold out)...no extra booking charge, no credit card charge! Valid from now until the first show of 2014 with the brilliant Johnny Coppin & Mike Silver on Sunday 26 January). More info also at www.facebook.com/gypsymusicpromotions.

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Session News
Totnes: Bay Horse Inn, 8 Cistern Street TQ9 5SP (01803 862088, www.bayhorsetotnes.com)
Traditional Open Session: First & third Mondays of every month, 8.45pm – 11pm. Players and singers welcome.
Traditional Singing Session: Second & fourth Tuesdays of the month, 8.45 - 11pm. Exploring British folk.
Eli’s Open Session: Every Thursday, 8.45 - 11pm. Singer/songwriters, musicians, percussionists – all welcome.
Bluegrass Session: Second Sunday each Month, 8.30pm - 11pm. Players welcome.

New Venue for 2014: Starz Bar in Exeter - Exeter Folk Project
Gigs start in the New Year, downstairs in the lounge bar, all seated (55-60 seats). More at www.facebook.com/Exeterfolkproject. Location: 18 Lower North Steet, Exeter, EX4 3ET. The line-up to date: 23/1/14 Blair Dumlop; 20/2/14 Greg Russell & Ciaran Algar; 27/3/14 O'Hooley & Tidow

Crabshell Records Kingsbridge
We don't normally advertise this sort of thing, but Neil does a great job with Kingsbridge-based Crabshell Records ("Any money raised over expenses will be entirely dedicated to promoting live music of the tradition in and around Kingsbridge") , mostly involving local South Devon performers including Rumpus, The Old Gaffers, and The Storm, or his own previous events. See www.flaxey-green.co.uk/Pages/Publications.html for the lastest info (and also www.shamstrad.co.uk/crabshellrecords.htm).

Session news
The first Malborough Open Mike at the Royal Oak will be on November 28th, no Open Mike in December but then regularly on the 4th Thursday of the month from January 2014. All styles of music welcome. Come along and play/sing or listen.9pm start but come a little earlier if you want to play or phone Mahrey/Phil on 01548 853593.
The Malborough Jam Session (all styles of music from folk to blues and rock, join in or listen) continues on the 2nd Wednesday of the month, and there will be a festive feel to the music on 11th December. 8.30pm start.
For more info on either of these contact Mahrey/Phil on 01548 853593 or Julia/Howard on 01803 864674. For the Royal Oak contact 01548 561481.
More session news (extracted from Tony Watts' emailed Acoustic Calendar for Wessex updates, see www.sanchobramble.weebly.com, info reproduced in good faith, contact Tony - not me - with any feedback, or to join his email list)
New
Plymouth: The Crown & Anchor, 10-11 The Barbican PL1 2LS (01752 224572) - Every Tuesday, 8pm. Open mic.
RIP (i.e. discontinued)
Plymouth: Blue Peter Inn, 68 Pomphlett Road PL9 7BN (01752 941794) - First Thursday of the month. Mixed folk session.
The landlord is still willing to host musicians if anyone would like to get a session together.
Plymouth: The Dolphin, 14 The Barbican PL1 2LS (01752 660876, Martin: 01752 550768) - First Sunday of the month, 1pm till early evening. Music and song session.
Plymouth: Minerva Inn, 31 Looe Street PL4 0EA (01752 223047) - Open Mic: First Wednesday of the month, 8.30pm.
NB: The Thursday folk session is still alive and well.

Wren Music: Newton Abbot Roots Band for 8 to 16 Year Olds
All acoustic instruments welcome ~ All abilities welcome – no auditions ~ Make new friends and have fun! ~ Loads of instruments to try ~ Learn new tunes ~ Create and arrange music ~ Opportunities to perform
Times: 5pm to 6.30pm on Thursdays. Dates are: 7, 14, 21, 28 Nov, 5 Dec . Venue: The Music Workshop, Newton Abbot College, Old Exeter Rd Newton Abbot, Devon TQ12 2NF. Cost: £5 per session or £45 per term (10 sessions per term). Contact: David Faulkner on 01837 53754 or david@wrenmusic.co.uk. More details www.wrenmusic.co.uk.

Phil Beer Gig News
According to Phil Beer's recently updated website www.philbeer.co.uk he has the following solo, Phil Beer Band and Feast of Fiddles gigs lined up locally in 2014 (box office contacts are generally given there, although whether tickets are on sale yet is another matter):
Friday 10 January 2014 - Phil Beer solo - Brixham Theatre
Friday 31 January 2014 - Phil Beer solo - Colebrook Parish Hall
Sunday 2 February 2014 - Phil Beer solo - Acoustic Warehouse Open Mic Club, Passage House Inn, Kingsteignton
Sunday 9 February 2014 7.45pm - Phil Beer solo - Folk on the Moor, Westward Inn, Lee Mill
Friday 28 February 2014 - Phil Beer Band - Plough Arts Centre, Gt. Torrington
Saturday 1 March 2014 - Phil Beer Band - Plough Arts Centre, Gt. Torrington
Sunday 2 March 2014 - Phil Beer Band - Barnfield Theatre, Exeter
Wednesday 9 April 2014 - Feast Of Fiddles - Exeter Corn Exchange
Friday 6 June 2014 - Phil Beer solo - The Old Chapel, Sand Lane, Calstock
Saturday 13 September 2014 - Phil Beer solo - Bow Village Hall, nr Crediton

Meanwhile Steve Knightley is doing this:
Steve Knightley's 'Grow Your Own Gig' - see www.growyourowngig.co.uk for details, and Steve's solo dates which currently include (again, box office contacts are generally given there, but tickets may not be on sale yet):
Thursday 9 January 2014 - Ley Arms, Kenn nr Exeter 01392 210983
Wednesday 29 January 2014 - Kingsand Village Hall 01579 347483
Saturday 1 February 2014 - Modbury Village Hall 01752 893051
Friday 28 February 2014 - Bow Village Hall 01363 82379
Sunday 18 May 2014 - Lympstone Village Hall 07771 558914

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Session News from the 'Acoustic Calendar for Wessex'
(see www.sanchobramble.weebly.com) which as originator Tony Watts states "is all about DIY music (not concerts, gigs, ceilidhs etc). The purpose of the Calendar is to keep you informed of all the places where you can take your voice and/or instrument and join in or do your own thing". Tony's 'Wessex' coverage extends into our area and his most recent email updates include the following:
RESURRECTED
Torquay: Ryans Bar, 25 Abbey Rd TQ2 5NF (01803 292520) Every Wednesday, 8pm. Folk/acoustic jam session.
NEW
Bradninch (nr. Exeter): Ye Old White Lion, 26 High Street EX5 4QL (01392 881263, Gerard Edwards: 01392881105 ) Third Sunday of the month, 3pm. Music session.
CHANGES OF DAY
Exeter: City Gate Hotel, Iron Bridge, Lower North Street EX4 3RB (01392 495811, citygate@youngs.co.uk)
Third Thursday of the month, 7.30pm in the function room. Music session. Previously listed as being on a Tuesday.
Exeter: Wells Tavern, 31 Well St. EX4 6QL (01392 424020)
Third Thursday of each month, 8pm. “Lively, energetic sessions with a mixture of songs and tunes. All welcome!” Run by Exeter University Folk Society. Previously on other Thursdays.
Exmouth: Beacon Vaults, Beacon Hill EX8 1PB (01395 488806)
Alternate Thursdays, 8.30pm - 10.30pm. “Instrumental session, mostly but not exclusively English. Good bus and train links, free parking in London Inn public car park only 100 yards away plus plenty of on street parking.” FREE PINT for performers. Previously on the fourth Thursday of the month.
RIP
Exeter: The Great Western Hotel, St David's EX4 4NU (01392 274039, enquiries@greatwesternhotel.co.uk) First & third Thursdays of the month, 8.30-ish. Irish session. Discontinued.
Exmouth: The Bath House, Esplanade EX8 2AZ (01395 265030) Every Tuesday, 8.30pm. Open mic. Top of Form. Acoustic. All welcome. Defunct.

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Feature: Exeter Phoenix Arts Centre
Friday 22 November - Adrian Edmondson & The Bad Shepherds - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/adrian-edmondson-the-bad-shepherds
Sunday 24 November - Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/kathryn-roberts-sean-lakeman
New Wednesday 27 November - Braebach - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/breabach.
New Wednesday 4 December - Chris Wood - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/chris-wood
Thursday 12 December - John Smith - www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/john-smith
New Wednesday 18 December - Bella Hardy -  www.exeterphoenix.org.uk/events/bella-hardy

New 'South Devon Arts Centre' in Totnes
This brand new (a month ago) not-for-profit community arts venue (whose patrons and friends include Jools Holland, Bob Harris and Sir Richard Branson) already has a massive programme lined up of top-class music of many genres, comedy, cabaret, theatre etc. and all ticketing details can be found at www.southdevonarts.co.uk. SDAC is located at The Stables, Ford Road, Totnes, TQ9 5LE (map) and has a maximum seated capacity of 190 (ground floor 110, gallery balcony 80), or 200 standing capacity ground floor. Plenty of free parking available close by. Licensed bar.
It's very difficult to categorise some performers, but here's a summary of the 'folkier' acts in the current published programme up to December:
22/11 Rue Royale; 23/11 Hayseed Dixie; 14/12 Mad Dog Mcrea - something for all tastes there! They're also all in the www.harbertonfolk.co.uk website Diary, with links to music/video samples in most cases.

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Session news:
Malborough (nr Kingsbridge):- The newly refurbished Royal Oak, Malborough is ready so the next second Wedensday session will be on Weds 10th April at 8.30 pm.
New sessions:
Bradninch (nr Exeter):- The White Lion, 26 High Street EX5 4QL (01392 881263) - Trad session (gerard_joy@btinternet.com): Second Sunday of the month (September to April), 3pm to 6-ish. “Traditional music session around the fire in a friendly pub (English, Welsh, Irish, Scottish, Breton music).”
Plymouth:- The Morley Arms, Billacombe Road PL9 7HP (01752 401191) - Bluegrass, blues and skiffle session: First Sunday of the month, 3pm to 6pm. (Reminder of existing session here: Music at The Morley: Third Sunday of the month, 3pm to 6pm. Open acoustic session. “Come along whether you be a player, singer, or enthusiastic hand-clapper or egg-shaker.”).

Buckfastleigh Mixed Voice A Cappella Choir - Recruiting
‘The Lost Sound’ is a small (24 singers), mixed voice, a cappella choir based in Buckfastleigh with a strong folk element. They have received an extremely warm response to their performances throughout 2012, especially from The Dart Music festival and Night of 1000 voices at Exeter Cathedral. They are looking to take on new singers in the Alto and Female tenor sections who have some harmony experience and who can learn quickly. For more info see www.singingandbreathing.co.uk or call Sandra on 01364 643105.

North Devon/West Somerset music listings - Listings of regular and special music events for the above area can always be found at www.shammickacoustic.org.uk (then click on 'Local Events').

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North Devon/West Somerset music listings
Listings of regular and special music events for the above area can always be found at www.shammickacoustic.org.uk (then click on 'Local Events').

Note to (potential) contributors - and readers:
The frequency of these e-circulars varies anywhere from approx. weekly up to fortnightly, driven essentially by work and personal priorities. Therefore, to give your event the best possible chance of inclusion (unless I forget! - has happened very occasionally), try to get your information to me at least a month in advance, preferably using the standard format I employ for most entries - see below - and preferably with a max. length of 50 to 75 words. Otherwise I have to edit text down to a reasonable length, and editing takes time! A Myspace (or similar) web link for music samples is a good idea too.

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Folk news slightly further afield:
Somerset & Dorset (SADFOLK) folk events
A regular and comprehensive emailed listing is available through www.sadfolk.co.uk (Somerset and Dorset folk) for folk events in venues large and small in those two counties, some of which are not too far away from the Harberton Folk area. Steve who runs this has over 800 contacts on his list.
North Devon www.shammickacoustic.org.uk - website listings
...and not forgetting www.flaxey-green.co.uk (and www.devonfolk.co.uk) for further detailed Devon listings, including many regular pub sessions,  folk dance clubs and much more.

1-2-1 Melodeon Tuition
Ed Rennie, lead tutor with the Devon Squeezebox Foundation, is currently teaching melodeon to a number of people on a 1-2-1 basis at their homes. The advantage from the students' point of view is the courses are tailored to their needs and progress at their pace and they get to stay at home in the warm and dry and Ed does all the running about in the cold and dark! Ed has a number of students he visits once a month in the West Dartmoor/Plymouth area (Mary Tavy to Saltash). He has capacity to take on some more students in the area, so if you would be interested to learn the melodeon at home with Ed, give him a shout at devonsqueezebox@hotmail.co.uk. Melodeon hire also available.

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A few notes about these listings - what gets listed, what doesn't... etc.
The listings primarily include 'folk' events, mostly of a concert nature, also folk club guest nights, folk workshops, ceilidhs / barn dances etc.
'Folk' of course means many things to many people so that's partly why I also include limited coverage of some Americana, blues and other acoustic music events, but also partly because there are dedicated people/venues in the area putting on top-class performers in these fields - and they take the trouble to send me information. (The 'other musics' will generally have shorter entries and fewer repeats.)
My preferred length for entries is 50-75 words, 100 words max. This length restriction, combined with a 'selection of events only', means that the overall length of each e-circular does not become excessive (and unduly sleep-inducing!). The full open-ended Diary is always available on www.harbertonfolk.co.uk.
If you're submitting stuff to me for inclusion, why not give a web link to online music samples? Most performers have them these days. And there's then a chance the reader will take a listen, perhaps like what they hear, and maybe even come to a gig they wouldn't have otherwise considered!
I don't include information about regular informal pub folk sessions or folk (social) dance club material - these areas are well covered by www.flaxey-green.co.uk and www.devonfolk.co.uk. - but I will list details of new sessions, for example.
The general distance qualifier has always been 'within 30 miles as the crow flies from Totnes' (covers a surprisingly wide range), although this does get stretched a little sometimes for items of potential wider South-West interest.
The e-circulars are sent to approx. 1400 folk-specific contacts (no telling of course how many fail to arrive for whatever reason, although I do my best to maintain the email list - several repeated rejections from the same address will result in that address being deleted)  The great majority of those contacts are within the above coverage area.
And please don't be offended if I occasionally forget - or even refuse - to include an item.
Keep enjoying the live music! - John Culf

New folk festival listing website
www.ukfolkfestivals.co.uk "tries to list almost every folk music festival in the UK" [and seems to do quite a good job]

More folk/roots music on local radio - Phonic FM (106.8 in Exeter; www.phonic.fm worldwide)
Martin Henning, Rich Cooke and Martin Hodge present 'Roots & Shoots' every Monday 6-8pm. They play folk/roots music from around the world and always include local music, often featuring live music - our next scheduled performers being Mad Dog McRea on Monday 10 May.

An 'interesting' email problem
Those of you who read my recent notes about the various problems I experience when sending these e-circulars may be interested/amused to see a (new) rejection message received from a recipient at a local educational establishment. I have highlighted the offending word in bold/red and added spaces so it's not rejected again. This word appeared in the item about Hayseed Dixie:
Microsoft Antigen for Exchange found a message matching a filter. The message is currently Identified.
Message: "hf21_30 080226"
Filter name: "KEYWORD= racial discrimination: h i l l b i l l y"
Sent from: "John Culf"

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A Virus Warning - but please do read this, unlike the usual hoaxes that circulate which are simply designed to clog up the email airwaves:
"There is a dangerous virus being passed around electronically, orally, and by hand. This virus is called Weary-Overload-Recreational-Killer (WORK). If you receive WORK from any of your colleagues, your boss, or anyone else via any means DO NOT TOUCH IT. This virus will wipe out your private life completely. If you should come into contact with WORK, put your jacket on and take two good friends to the nearest grocery store. Purchase the antidote known as Work-Isolating-Neutralizer-Extract (WINE) or Bothersome-Employer-Elimination-Rebooter (BEER). Take the antidote repeatedly until WORK has been completely eliminated from your system. You should forward this warning to 5 friends. If you do not have 5 friends, you have already been infected."

'Virus' warnings - Chain emails (e.g. petrol prices) - Please avoid them
With 1400+ email contacts, if there's junk going around I usually see quite a few examples of it. If you receive a chain email, such as those that warn of a terrible virus circulating which will destroy your hard disk, do please take a moment to check before forwarding it to your entire address book. Pick out a couple of salient words and put them into Google, e.g. "olympic torch email", and you'll soon see that they are invariably hoaxes, simply designed to further clog up email servers across the globe. And whilst possibly originally well intentioned, the petrol price emails doing the rounds have essentially been around since 1999 - see http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_gas_boycott_2006.htm and read the analysis/comments.

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Other interesting local music links
Plymouth Classical Music Concert Diary www.plyclassical.co.uk - Comprehensive month-by-month listings of all types of classical music in and around Plymouth, plus some jazz and folk, including Harberton Folk's events.
Plymouth Music Accord www.plymouthmusicaccord.co.uk - Registered Charity promoting the appreciation and performance of music in the Plymouth area. Members include local orchestras, bands, choirs, opera groups, etc. and many promoters and venues, and Plymouth Folk Festival (who have a brand new, smart website).
'Off topic' but we'll mention a couple of other local live music sources for different genres:
Totnes Early Music Society www.totnesearlymusic.org.uk - fairly self-explanatory

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